Justina Ikwu
Justina Ikwu

 

Not Everytime Collectivism, Sometimes Individualism

The necessity for dependency varies in different continents depending on their firm beliefs and practices. In Africa, the psychological framework of survival is seen from a collective perspective compared to the individualistic state of mind of the western countries.  Due to differences in the cultures, Africans tend to form a sense of dependency on their neighbours, and expect those around them to be a part of their survival in the world. This perspective of full dependency and collectivism is inculcated in Africans at a very young age. The pampering and ‘cautionary’ shielding has resulted in the late realization of self-dependency. We tend to realize a sense of individual stability at quite a late age because of its unfamiliarity.
It is a very sensitive topic to perch on because the upbringing of a child is personal and unique to each parent. But, when do their sense of obligations overshadow the harsh reality of the world? You can give your children enough money to do something but not enough money to do nothing
We all want the best for those around us, especially the ones we feel obliged to help but there should be a limit to the level of dependency we create amongst ourselves.  It is always necessary to encourage people to look up to who they really are for survival, and not their friends or family or the closest source of comfort. In reality, your success and shortcomings all depends on you, and no one else. You are fully responsible for the outcome of your life.